In early times floors became an
important ornamental element in architecture. Mosaics, colored and glazed tiles,
marbles of different colors, and inlaid wood have been used throughout history
to create designs. Among famous examples of ornamental flooring are the mosaic
pavements found in the ruins of a Roman villa near Piazza Armerina, Sicily. The
mosaics, set around AD 300, cover an area of 3500 sq m (4200 sq yd) and are
outstanding for their range of colors and their vigorous style.

Text from Microsoft Encarta

remains of the Roman baths

the floor of the baths are held above the hot air chamber by a
pile of bricks